2021 Chevy Malibu Sport Edition Featured in Carbuzz.com Close-Up

During a time when trucks and SUVs are snagging up a large share of what is the overall popularity factor, it is inspiring to see that the fun and engagement had while driving a sedan still lives on. The ninth-generation Chevy Malibu is gaining a new spec as it now enters its sixth year on the market in the form of the Sport Edition, and the folks on staff at Carbuzz.com highlighted the excitement in their blog this week.

 

The 2021 Sport Package includes upgrades in the form of a black nameplate badge, black bow-tie emblems, and black-painted alloy wheels measuring 13 inches in diameter, wrapped in 245-section all-season tires. It is based on the LT trim level – one step down from the range-topping premier trim – and sees the requirement of a Jet-Black exterior paint option. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will now see wireless features, where before a USB cable connection was required, and the model will also see the addition of a newly available safety feature being added to encourage proper seat belt use. Called “Buckle to Drive”, the driver is not allowed to shift out of park until it is detected that the seat belt is fastened.

Inside, the current Malibu sports a traditional cabin for its class, but it adds to the style with varying light color contrasts, an exceptionally large touchscreen, a simpler HVAC interface, and uniquely shaped air vents. If you opt for the RS trim, you see even more contrast with Jet Black Interior, which matches with the metallic trim nicely. Those looking for a bit more luxury will find what they need in the Premium trim, which includes leather seating, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and more.

Standard amenities such as an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a six-speaker audio system, and Bluetooth audio streaming should all be on the list, and under the hood in the starter model is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers 163 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. At the top of the engine lineup is a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that cranks out 250 hp, paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission. All of us here at West Chevy of Knoxville are proud of the fact that the current Malibu boasts a “Superior” rating in the front-crash prevention test, and this is with the enhanced automatic emergency braking system.

After a test drive, you’re going to see so many reasons to add the Malibu to your family’s fleet: the sedan always offers up the connection between the road and the driver that the excitement of driving was always meant to be centered around. The ability to haul and tow that a pickup gives you always boasts its appropriate time and place, but when a hairpin turn is in your near future, the spirit and excitement of a sedan are unbeatable and exhilarating!